Xero’s Gmail integration seeks to move emails immediately from the respective user’s inbox into the accounting workflow, in an attempt to provide small businesses with a greater insight into the relationships with their customers.

According to the software provider, tighter integration with Google Apps for Work will enable small businesses to export content seamlessly from Xero to Google Sheets, assisting in the collaborative process with customers, suppliers and financial advisers.

“Our global relationship with Google bolsters Xero as a real-time business platform for business owners,” said James Maiocco, general manager at Xero.

“Our integrations provide a smarter and simpler way to manage the daily workflows associated with all aspects of their business operation.”

The Gmail integration coincides with a redesigned contacts page within the Xero software.

“Google is encouraged to see a deeper Xero integration with Gmail and Google Apps for Work to help small businesses streamline their workflow and deliver a beautiful user experience,” said Rahul Sood, general manager for Google Apps for Work at Google.

“Businesses have come to expect simple, seamless processes and enterprise-grade security from all their cloud applications. Google and Xero can deliver this together to help small businesses focus on what they do best.”